by Administrator
16. April 2011 07:19
Sjogren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by dryness of the eyes. Autoimmune diseases sport the unnatural production of extra antibodies in the blood that are targeted against several tissues of the body. This particular autoimmune illness features inflammation in glands of the body that are liable for producing tears. Inflammation of the glands that bring about tears (lacrimal glands) results in the decreased water production for tears and ultimately leads to dry eyes. In people with dry eye, thin spots in the tear film may appear and the tears no longer adequately protect and support the health of ocular surface tissues.
Nine out of ten Sjogren's patients are females and an average age of onset is late 40s, although Sjogren's takes place in all age groups in both women and men. It is approximated to affect as many as 4 million people in the United States alone, turning it into the second most common autoimmune rheumatic disorder.
Causes of Sjogren's Syndrome:
The accurate reason behind Sjogren's Syndrome is not known yet. But some of the possible reasons are as follows:
- A combination of environmental and genetic factors.
- A bacterial or viral infection.
- A family history of Sjogren's.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome:
- Some typical symptoms linked with Sjogren's Syndrome are as follows:
- Cracking up of the tongue.
- Mouth sores and swelling.
- Dry eyes.
- Skin rashes including purple spots.
- Fatigue.
- Difficulty in Breathing. Hoarseness
- Dental cavities.
- Difficulty in swallowing food.
Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome:
The selection of treatment for Sjogren's Syndrome depends largely on the severity of the disease. Mild instances of dry eye Syndrome will require no more than usage of artificial tear solutions and hot compresses with eyelid massage via ophthalmic ointments. If the precondition is not adequately dealt with artificial tears, the use of sustained-release ocular lubricants or prescribed eye drops may be advocated. Therapy for Sjogren's Syndrome also can sometimes include punctal occlusion by plugs or cauterization.
Killeen Eyecare Center provides consultation and treatments for various eye problems. Call us today at 254-634-7805 for further assistance.